Mercedes-Benz's quint of SUVs carries on largely unchanged for 2012, with the exception of the R-Class minivan-ish crossover, which receives the new direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 shared with the new E-Class and SLK Roadster. The new engine brings the output total to 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, improvements of 34 hp and 15 lb-ft, respectively.
The rest of the Mercedes crossover and SUV clan carries over its powertrains from last year, the big news for the other models being a revised media interface re-located to the center console. As is all the rage these days, LED daytime running lights have been added to the GL and R class models. The R-Class also gets an updated COMAND interface with HD Radio, Sirius real-time traffic, built-in Zagat guide and a 4GB hard drive.
The square-jawed G-Class soldiers on with the 5.5 naturally-aspirated V-8, but adds some available accessory packages allowing the buyer to select customization options such as side-exit exhaust, silver painted wheels, and designo custom upholstery.
However, we have seen some spy shots of a revised ML driving around both Europe and the U.S. suggesting an all-new Mercedes midsize SUV may not be far away.